10 ways to eat out on a dime

Times are tough, but must we give up all our little luxuries? Sure, now is definitely the time to leave the Hummer parked in the driveway, but grabbing a meal out with friends or family is one tiny indulgence we don’t want to give up altogether. Every now and then we need to dine out, celebrate, and live it up a little. Here are a few ways to break loose without breaking the bank.

1. Discover before you dine
Use the Internet to do some reconnaissance before making dinner plans. Browse the web and find out what restaurants in your town offer deals, steals, family- and wallet-friendly offers and specials. Check out foodie web sites such as www.restaurant.ca for Canada-wide listings, or www.chowhound.chow.com and see what information you can glean from that community of insatiable eaters. You might even find some advertisers coupons right on these sites.

2. Print and clip coupons
Check out restaurant web sites. You can often find coupons, such as two-for-one or even free entrées, ready to be downloaded and printed.

3. Don’t be shy
Before deciding where to eat, call and ask about a discounted kiddie’s menu. Some family-friendly places even have kids-eat-for-free specials. And look into their policy regarding free drink re-fills, bread baskets, or even endless ice cream.

4. Dine out on less-busy nights
Some restaurants, eager to increase traffic on traditionally slow nights, like Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday, may offer terrific specials. Likewise at slower times of the day, between 4 and 6, you may find an Early Bird special or Happy Hour where certain appetizers are discounted or even complementary with your drink.

5. All you can eat
Choose a place featuring an all-you-can-eat salad bar. Take your time and get your fill of all those good-for-you veggies, then go easy on the menu. But the classic steakhouse isn’t the only place you’ll find fabulous all-you-can-eat deals. Most Indian restaurants offer buffets, often for both lunch and dinner. The variety is usually incredible and the food is generally really tasty and super filling. Just don’t make the mistake of stuffing up on rice - go for the butter chicken! Some Asian places such as Chinese, Thai, and even sushi offer all-you-can-eat bargains. Once again, don’t be afraid to call and ask. 

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